William “Bill” Andrew Long, 75, of Gnadenhutten died unexpectedly Saturday afternoon of January 25, 2025, at Trinity Hospital Twin City in Dennison.
A lifelong resident of Gnadenhutten, Bill was born at home on July 18, 1949, to the late Robert and Alice (Griffith) Long. Bill graduated from Indian Valley South in 1968, and then joined the U.S. Army in 1969. During his time in the service, he married the late Paula Renicker, on June 14, 1970, and spent fifty years with her before her death on November 20, 2020. In ’71, Bill’s time in the service had come to an end and he went to work for Michigan Sewer Pipe until its closure and then at Stone Container for more than twenty years until his retirement. During his free time, Bill enjoyed hunting, fishing, and watching Western TV shows and movies.
Along with his wife and parents, Bill was preceded in death by a brother Robert Long, and a sister Joann Mattison.
Surviving are Bill’s three children: Dawnette Lynn Welch and companion Andy Ritz of Logan, Ohio, Billi Jo Long of Massillon, Ohio, and William Andrew “Andy” Long II and wife Amanda of Newcomerstown; six grandchildren: Courtney Jean Welch, Chase Lee Jenkins, Alexa Renae Long with companion Matthew Troyer, Alayna Kaye Long with companion Logan Clark, Caitlynn Marie Long with companion Brett Patterson II, and William Andrew “Drew” Long III with companion Alivia Dennis, many other special grandchildren; four siblings: June Davis, Betty and Everett Holland, Carol Hunt, Kenny and Debi Long; and sister-in-law Vivian Long.
Calling hours for Bill will be held Friday, January 31, 2025, at Koch Funeral Home of Gnadenhutten, 244 N. Walnut St, 44629 from 5:00 P.M. to 7:00 P.M. and from 10:00 A.M. to 11:00 A.M. on Saturday. Following the calling hour on Saturday, February 1, 2025, at 11:00 A.M., a Military Honors service will be performed by the Newcomerstown Veteran Honor Guard, then a funeral service, officiated by Pastor David Koch, will be held immediately following. Burial will take place in Gnadenhutten-Clay Union Cemetery after the service. Memorial contributions may be made to Disabled Veterans or to the Wounded Warrior Project at Wounded Warrior Project – Donate.
Koch Funeral Home, LLC
244 N. Walnut Street
Gnadenhutten, OH 44629
740.254.4200
www.kochfhgnaden.com
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